Zoya Hadinejad; Mehrdad Farrokhi; Shokoufeh Ahmadi; Mohammad Saatchi; Hamidreza Khankeh
Volume 13, Issue 2 , April 2025, , Pages 105-114
Abstract
Objectives: This qualitative study aimed to identify the key challenges associated with managing patients affected by biological emergencies in Iran.
Methods: This study was part of grounded theory research using the constant comparative analysis method proposed by Corbin (2014). Data were gathered ...
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Objectives: This qualitative study aimed to identify the key challenges associated with managing patients affected by biological emergencies in Iran.
Methods: This study was part of grounded theory research using the constant comparative analysis method proposed by Corbin (2014). Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 25 individuals with expertise or experience in managing biological emergencies. Purposive sampling, followed by theoretical sampling, was employed until theoretical saturation was reached. Data collection was conducted between April and November 2023, and MAXQDA software (2020) was used for data analysis.
Results: After several rounds of data analysis and summarization, considering similarities and differences, four main categories and 14 subcategories were identified. The main categories included: 1) lack of a comprehensive risk communication strategy, 2) inefficiencies in patient flow mismanagement, 3) systemic political and governance challenges, and 4) deficiencies in resource allocation and utilization.
Conclusion: This study highlighted the challenges faced by Iran’s Healthcare system in managing affected individuals in biological emergencies. Key issues included mismanagement of patient flow and systemic inefficiencies. Addressing these challenges is essential for enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of Iran’s Healthcare system. Further research is recommended to provide practical strategies for managing biological emergencies in the future.
Abbas Naboureh; Mehrdad Farrokhi; Mohammad Saatchi; Shokofeh Ahmadi; Babak Farzinnia; Ferydon layeghi; Hamidreza Khankeh
Volume 12, Issue 4 , October 2024, , Pages 185-192
Abstract
Objective: This qualitative study aimed to identify the key issues within Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in large urban regions.Methods: This study used qualitative content analysis as its research methodology. The study was conducted in 2023 and involved 21 Iranian EMS stakeholders, selected through ...
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Objective: This qualitative study aimed to identify the key issues within Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in large urban regions.Methods: This study used qualitative content analysis as its research methodology. The study was conducted in 2023 and involved 21 Iranian EMS stakeholders, selected through purposive sampling with maximum diversity to ensure a broad range of expertise. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews, which were conducted until data saturation was reached. The analysis followed the method proposed by Landman and Graneheim, which involved systematic coding and categorization to identify key themes and patterns related to EMS challenges.Results: The study included 17 men and 4 women. The data analysis identified eight subcategories, which were then divided into three main categories based on their similarities. These main categories addressed challenges in EMS delivery, emerging issues in EMS demand, and resource constraints.Conclusion: This study highlighted the challenges that Iran’s EMS encountered in megacities due to rapid urbanization and an elderly population. Key issues included operational inefficiencies, increasing demand, and limited resources. Addressing these challenges is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of EMS. Further research is required to develop strategies for overcoming these obstacles and strengthening EMS in large urban regions.
